Fire Safety Tips for the Winter and Holiday Season

The holidays and winter can be a wonderful time of the year—but only if you're safe.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) are providing tips to prevent fires during a season of dry Christmas trees and space heaters.

According to the NFPA, a fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. To see how quick, watch the video found in the media gallery above.

Here are some tips from both the NFPA and NFSA:

• Make sure that trees are at least 3 feet from any heat source—fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, lights, et al.
• Do not place trees where they are blocking exits.
• Water your trees daily. For the recipe to a tea concoction that helps to extend the lives of trees, click here.
• Replace strings of lights that have worn or broken cords/bulbs. Don't use lit candles to decorate trees.
• Turn off your Christmas tree before leaving your house or going to bed.
• Limit your use of space heaters and never leave them unattended. 
• Check your smoke detectors to ensure that they are working properly and have full battery power.
• Have an escape plan and keep emergency numbers handy.

Allegheny County officials are also offering a list of resources to help you and your family. To check out the safety tips, click here.

This article originally appeared on the Plum-Oakmont Patch.

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